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Searcy has a rich history that spans over two centuries. First known as White Sulphur Springs, this Arkansas city served as a therapeutic health spa during the early 1800s, drawing in visitors who wished to partake in the healing properties of the natural springs that contained white sulphur, chalybeate and alum. The spa later became defunct, and in 1837, just a year after being named the White County seat, White Sulphur Springs was renamed after Richard Searcy, a prominent legislator in early Arkansas.
Downtown Searcy is home to some beautiful and historic homes that have been standing for decades. Many of these homes have been preserved and maintained to showcase their unique architecture and design. Within walking distance of downtown Searcy, you can see many of these homes that have stood the test of time, preserving the town’s rich history and the people who have lived here. It’s really fascinating to see these homes and to imagine what life was like for the families who called them home so many years ago.
Today, Searcy is a thriving community that offers a unique blend of Southern charm and modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy exploring the city’s historic landmarks, including the White County Courthouse and the Rialto Theater, or simply take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant community. Main Street Searcy and the White County Historical Society both work diligently to preserve the historical integrity of Searcy, and efforts are underway to establish the Searcy Historic District that will include these homes along with many others.
Smith House
The Smith House was built in 1920 after being ordered from the Sears Roebuck catalog for approximately $1,200. Although some modifications have been made over the last hundred years, the central portion of the home is Sears Modern Home 264P202, known as the Magnolia Home plan. This plan first became available in 1916 and is one of only two known Sears catalog homes which still stand in White County and only one of seven remaining Magnolia homes in the country.
Now owned by Josh and Jenny Turner, the home has been lovingly restored. While modern conveniences and amenities have been added, the home retains its original charm. Click to read more about the Sears Catalog House in Searcy.
Dalton Woodson House
The Dalton Woodson House is one of the best examples of English revival construction in White County. The home was built in 1929 by Dalton Woodson’s father, Albert Woodson, whose historic Craftsman Bungalow sits adjacent to the property.
Dalton Woodson was a prominent citizen and civic leader in Searcy in the 1920s and 30s. His home remains in relatively good shape and showcases the type of high-quality yet economical homes that Searcy’s upper middle class desired during the period.
Kerr Booth House
Built in 1890 by a local druggist, Z.E. Kerr, the home was a classic example of Queen Anne-style, late Victorian architecture, complete with gingerbread trim. A few years after building the house, Kerr sold it to Ms. Laura Witworth, who only lived in the home for a few years before selling it to Henry and Ruth Booth in 1905. Henry Booth and his brother George were merchants in Searcy.
Just four years later, Henry Booth’s wife died at the home while giving birth to the couple’s first child, who also passed. Henry Booth was so distraught and sold the home to his brother and built a home (now the law office of Michael Miller) elsewhere in the city.
The home remained in the Booth family until the mid-1970s, although many changes were made. George Booth removed the gingerbread trim and his wife, who married Mr. Rand following his death, made several significant changes, including moving staircases and doors and refiguring several of the home’s main rooms.
After Mrs. Booth-Rand passed in the 1970s, various owners made changes to the home. Current owners have worked to restore some of the home’s historical integrity both inside and out.
Hunt House
Built in 1935, the Hunt House is a classic example of an English Revival style that was popular then. What’s most striking about the Hunt House is the quirky and eclectic mix of materials used to decorate the facade of the house that give it a unique appearance.
Over the years, the house’s exterior has remained largely unaltered and remains in great condition.
Mark P. Jones House
Built around 1928, the single-story Mark P. Jones house is a classic example of English Revival style similar to several other historic homes that remain in the area. While the architectural style is significant, the historical resident of this home adds to its charm.
Mark P. Jones served as the mayor of Searcy from 1924-1936 and lived in this home for most of that time period. During his multiple terms of 12 years, Jones played a vital role in bringing the city of Searcy back to life following the Great Depression, encouraging the growth of neighborhoods in the downtown area and assisting business owners in the community.
Black House
Benjamin Black, who served as the Mayor of Searcy from 1886 to 1894, along with his wife Molly Rosamund Jones, built this home as a two-room log cabin in 1858, where they raised 11 children. Over the years, they built additions and made changes to the original structure designing it to look like homes they had seen in New Orleans while on their honeymoon.
The home remained in the family until the late 1970s when their youngest daughter died. The home was then owned by Dr. Porter Rogers, Jr., who later gifted it to the city of Searcy. Since 1999, the home has served as the home of the Searcy Arts Council and Searcy Art Gallery.
The Black House was recently repainted, changing the exterior color from yellow to white to return it to its historic color. You can read more about the Black House and the Searcy Arts Council here.
Preserving Historic Homes of Searcy
Unfortunately, as is the case with many cities, several historic homes of Searcy have been lost to the effects of time and the city’s growth. In February 2022, the Ben Lightle House was demolished to make room for a church parking lot. As many of these historic homes age, structural issues arise along with issues due to aging electrical and plumbing work. The cost of correcting these problems is not feasible for most people, and it’s often easier to demolish and build something new.
The White County Historical Society hopes to educate people on the importance of allowing future generations the pleasure of experiencing a small piece of the past. The society hosts events and has regular meetings on the fourth Monday of each month. Contact the White County Historical Society to see how you can get involved in preserving the past for future generations.
Look at these other historic homes in Arkansas!
Historic Homes of Arkansas: Old Conway
Historic Homes of Jonesboro
Historic Houses of Euerka Springs, Part 1
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